CORONATION Street star Vicky Entwistle attracted hundreds of starstruck shoppers to the Mill Gate on Wednesday (Nov 22) for the annual switch-on of the precinct's Christmas lights.

Vicky, who plays Janice Battersby in the soap, came straight from the set to join the Mayor and Mayoress of Bury, Councillor Bill Johnson and his wife, Joyce, for the event.

She was given a rousing reception by the crowd in the centre's main square outside Marks and Spencers as she arrived with performing musicians from the Tottington Public Band. A nervous Vicky said: "I'm so excited about putting these lights on. I've never done this.

"I've never been here before but I promise I'll be coming back because there are some fab shops."

The warm welcome was followed by a Christmas countdown and joyous cheers as the lights began to sparkle, brightening up the November evening.

In a build-up to the big switch-on, shoppers had been entertained by the Affetside Choir and 14-year-old Hannah Morris, who reached the final of BBC talent show Star For a Night. Former pop sensations Right Said Fred also popped in on their way to perform at the Chicago Rock Cafe.

Kids were kept occupied with free face-painting and antics from Trumble the Clown and the Mill Gate Fairy.

The mayor later took the opportunity to bid the people of the town a merry Christmas.

He said: "I'd like to wish all the people of Bury a happy Christmas and all that they would wish for themselves for the New Year."

Mill Gate marketing manager Adam Chinn said: "It's been absolutely fantastic tonight. The atmosphere's been superb, the turnout's been superb and so have Vicky and the mayor."

Shoppers clamoured for Vicky's autograph before going on for a spot of evening shopping. The centre is open late every Wednesday in the run up to Christmas.